Pair of Amsterdamse School Armchairs by Cornelis van der Sluys, The Netherlands ca 1920s (sold)




















Pair of Amsterdamse School Armchairs by Cornelis van der Sluys, The Netherlands ca 1920s (sold)
The Amsterdamse School defined Dutch architecture and design from as early as the 1910s. The style has roots in Expressionist architecture, borrowing elements from the Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) and Art Deco aesthetic. Designers working within this movement, like Cornelis van der Sluys, often blurred the line between architecture and furniture, creating pieces that were meant to anchor an interior rather than disappear into it. These armchairs are a clear expression of that philosophy.
This pair showcases a robust solid wood construction, with a warm, slightly patinated surface that highlights the natural grain and depth of the material. The frames are deliberately straightforward yet bold, giving the chairs a grounded presence that feels both honest and enduring. Each chair features a unique backrest design, resulting in a complementing match rather than an identical pair. Even though the backs differ, they are still defined by a subtle architectural quality achieved through wooden slats and panels, characteristic of Amsterdamse School seating. From every angle, the chairs reveal thoughtful joinery and a careful balance, with no unnecessary embellishment, only purposeful design choices that emphasise durability, comfort, and visual cohesion. The seats are upholstered in a muted fabric, which allows the focus to remain on the wooden frames. The squared legs are connected by stretchers that reinforce the structure while maintaining a clean visual rhythm.
This pair of chairs stands as evidence of the reason many Dutch architects succeeded at the craft of furniture design. Driven by function, Cornelis van der Sluys’s focus was evidently on practicality, structural stability, and a design in favour of these principles. This pair is the perfect way to bring organic charm to a minimalist space.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. The chairs are not identical. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the chairs may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The seats have recently been reupholstered in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
25.39 in W x 22.83 in D x 31.89 in H; Seat height 16.54 in; Seat depth 20.27 in; Arm height 24.41 in
64.5 cm W x 58 cm D x 81 cm H; Seat height 42 cm; Seat depth 51.5 cm; Arm height 62 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Wim den Boon was a Dutch designer and architect associated with the post-war modernist movement in the Netherlands. After studying interior design at the Academy of Fine Arts in The Hague, he worked alongside artists like Hein Stolle and Pierre Kleykamp to contribute to a number of important post-war interiors, including projects for Schiphol Airport. Den Boon later established himself independently in The Hague, where he designed furniture characterised by restrained compositions, careful spatial treatment, and a preference for unadorned everyday materials.
Influences from De Stijl and Scandinavian modernism remained visible throughout his work, particularly in the balance between strict structure and warmth. This lounge chair reflects that sensibility through its reduced oak construction and tactile ponyskin upholstery. The frame is composed of cylindrical supports and straight horizontal rails, creating a clear geometric outline around the upholstered body. The proportions are low and generous, giving the piece a relaxed, grounded posture. The seat and backrest form a wide lounging space upholstered entirely in champagne-coloured ponyskin. The material introduces a textured surface, giving the otherwise minimal form a sense of movement and depth. Still, the oak remains visible throughout the design, outlining the silhouette and through its slim slats it prevents the chair from appearing overly heavy. The tilt of the backrest softens the strict geometry and contributes to the lounge-like comfort of the piece.
Den Boon was part of the generation of Dutch designers who helped shape post-war modernism in the Netherlands through a restrained and architectural approach to furniture. This chair is proof of his talent. It feels architectural in structure, yet tactile and warm in appearance, reflecting the balance that made Dutch modernist furniture so distinctive during the period.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lounge chair has recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The piece has recently been reupholstered in premium ponyskin. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
25.79 in W x 34.26 in D x 27.56 in H; Seat height 14.97 in; Seat depth 20.67 in
65.5 cm W x 87 cm D x 70 cm H; Seat height 38 cm; Seat depth 52.5 cm